Sierra Leone

Sierra Leone, a lush tropical country on the west coast of Africa, contains some of the richest natural resources and mineral deposits (including diamonds) in the world. Ironically, it is also considered the poorest country in the world. It ranks lowest in the world by the Human Development Index (HDI), and highest in the world for infant mortality (children dying before reaching age 5). Malaria and HIV/AIDS are widespread and malnutrition—especially among the children—is rampant.

Coupled with this overwhelming poverty and hopelessness, from 1991–2001 Sierra Leone was center stage to a devastating ten-year rebel war in which tens of thousands of people were killed and an estimated one million people were forced from their homes and villages—many raped, tortured, and/or conscripted into rebel forces. The war destroyed much of the country’s infrastructure and has left its mark, most notably on the children—leaving over 340,000 children orphaned.

Ninety percent of Sierra Leone’s population is descended from the numerous ethnic groups native to Africa (16 recognized tribes each with its own language and costume), Mende is the largest at 30% of the population. The remaining 10% are descendents of freed slaves called Krios from the West Indies and the US, who came to Sierra Leone in the late 1700s.

English is the official language of Sierra Leone, but only a small minority speak it. Krio, a derivative of English, was introduced to Sierra Leone by the Krios centuries ago and continues to be the common language throughout the country today.

Although approximately 99% of the Krio population are followers of Christianity, only 30% of the population of Sierra Leone are Christian. The majority (60%) are Muslim or followers of Islam. Ten percent practice African indigenous religions.

A typical family dwelling in Sierra Leone is a mud hut with a dirt floor and a thatched roof. Cooking is done by outdoor fire, laundry, washing, and bathing are done in the nearest river or with water hauled from the closest water source. A typical family’s diet consists of rice, cassava root, and leafy greens. Running water and electricity are non-existent for the overwhelming.

In family life it is not uncommon to share a home with grandparents, aunts, uncles, and/or in-laws. There is great respect in this culture for elders (and wisdom) in the family and community.

The high orphan population has created an undue burden on extended families who are barely able to provide for their own children, let alone children of their deceased relatives. Any child who has lost one parent is considered orphaned. If double-orphaned (a loss of both parents), generally the child will go to live with any relative willing to take them in. This can cause relatives to be overburdened. Widows and elderly grandparents are often left no choice but to take in children they cannot properly provide for, sometimes a dozen or more. Many orphans are taken advantage of, abandoned, rejected, and in some cases left to fend for themselves.

Sierra Leone has one of the lowest average household incomes in the world with nearly 60% living on less than $1 per day. Every day, children and adults die from non-life-threatening diseases or treatable/preventable conditions that have turned fatal.

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Containers of Hope has partnered with Children of the Nations helping them to accomplish their goal of "Raising children who transform nations". They realize the future of any country is in the hands, minds and souls of its children. Their daily presence in the communities they minister to, providing resources (including schools, medical clinics, feeding centers, health initiatives, etc.) empower Sierra Leonean nationals to raise their own children. In partnership with COTN, Containers of Hope can provide the materials needed to make that vision a reality.